Shoplifting is a crime that can be a misdemeanor or a felony charge depending on the value of the items stolen. Whether they’re facing a felony or a misdemeanor, anyone who is arrested and charged with shoplifting is going to want to make sure they contact a Theft Defense Attorney quickly. They can look into theft defenses that might help in the person’s case.
Owns Property Suspected of Being Stolen
It is possible for someone to be suspected of shoplifting when the item they’re accused of taking is actually something they already own. For instance, the person may have something from the store in their purse, and they take it out and put it back in while they’re in the store. If the employee doesn’t see the person take it out of a purse, that employee might believe the item is stolen even though it is not.
If this happens, the arrested person may be able to have the charges dismissed if they can prove they own the item in question. However, this is not always easy to do. Legal assistance is required to make sure they can show they own the property they’re accused of stealing and that they didn’t actually steal anything while they were in the store.
Theft Was an Accident
Sometimes, the theft might not be on purpose. In most cases, it is not shoplifting if there is no intent to shoplift. A person might, for instance, accidentally pick up something they thought was theirs, but took what the store had instead of their own. Another example would be someone putting something in the bottom of the shopping cart and failing to see it when they pay for their items.
This is a defense that’s incredibly difficult to prove in most cases, but it is a valid defense. The arrested person will need to hire a lawyer immediately to help prove they did not intend to commit theft.
There are other possible defenses against shoplifting as well, depending on the exact scenario. If you’ve been accused of shoplifting, make sure you contact a Theft Defense Attorney immediately so they can help determine the defense to use in your case and work to help you have the charges minimized or dismissed. Visit website. online to learn more or to find a lawyer today. You can also follow them on Twitter for latest news and update!
